How to Pack for a Snowboarding Trip

 

How to Pack – Where to begin?

At least once a year, I head out to the western US for a ski/snowboarding trip.  Generally, we go as a family or I meet my dad out there for a father/daughter weekend.  I’ve been skiing since I was three, and snowboarding since I was nine, so luckily I’ve nailed the wardrobe by now (although it’s taken a few mishaps).  Lift tickets are expensive and most people don’t have the opportunity to ski often, so you want to maximize your time on the slopes.  You don’t want to waste time fiddling with your layers and equipment! Below are my key items I always take with me when I go shred the pow:

The base layers:

Long socks

Go with thick socks or double up on thin ones if it’s cold, do just thinner socks if it’s ~35 degrees fahrenheit or above).  Your boots go up a few inches above your ankle, I’m always glad I have up a layer between my skin and my boots or else I get bruises where my boots dig into my shins

High waisted legging

The “high waisted” part is key for me, as a snowboarder you’re sitting down often.  I don’t want any part of my back exposed to the elements.  It could be super cold out and having some skin exposed would not be fun.  Also while sitting you could get snow in your pants or up your jacket – not comfortable!  I always wear something under my snowpants, even if it’s warm outside, so they might as well be high waisted pants that can keep the snow out.

A long sleeve shirt or thermal

As with the other items, the thickness of this layer is dependent on weather.  If it’s ~25 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, I usually wear a thin long sleeve shirt as well as a thinner sweatshirt of some sort.  If it’s relatively warm out, I’ll only wear one thin long sleeve shirt.

Thin gloves

I always end up taking my thick gloves off when strapping in, adjusting my zippers or unbuckling my helmet.  When I take my gloves off, my fingers are cold! I usually wear a pair of thin gloves that allow movement underneath my thick snowboarding gloves so my hands are never chilly.

The top layers:

Snowpants

You know how you always see at least one old guy wearing jeans while you’re on the slopes? Don’t be that guy.  Especially don’t be that guy if you’re on a snowboard – you’ll be spending lots of time on your bum.  I have a pair of North Face white snowpants that I absolutely love.  They’re thin enough that I don’t look like a marshmellow, but thick enough that I’m always warm.

Snowboarding Jacket

I still have no idea how some girls look cute in snowboarding jackets.  I’ve tried to find the balance between too tight and too loose, but often end up missing the mark.  My favorite jacket so far is my current one – it’s a navy blue Burton jacket that I bought for ~$130 on Amazon.  It’s a similar situation to my snowpants – thin enough that I can roll it up and stick it in my backpack, but thick enough that I’m never cold.

Face Mask

Even when it’s warm out, I wear my face mask.  The ski lifts are often between the trees, and therefore in the shade.  Riding up the ski lift can get pretty chilly, even on a nice day, so I’m always thankful I have my mask.  Also, when you’re shredding down the slopes, the wind is blasting your face, it’s not exactly pleasant – especially if there’s snow blowing!

Gloves

A pair of nice snowboarding/skiing gloves is so key to a nice day on the slopes.  I was being stingy and using my brother’s hand-me-down gloves that were ripped and too big for me…up until last year.  I finally realized I was an adult with my own money and bought a sick pair of Burton gloves.  Good lord what a difference they made! They fit, they’re cozy, and they’ve got the handy part where you wipe your snot 😉

The equipment:

Boots

The boot technology has really come a long way.  You may be noticing a pattern here – I got all of my gear when I was 13.  Now, 14 years later, I’m realizing what a disservice I’ve been doing to myself.  I recently got new boots, also Burton bought on Amazon.  I don’t have to tie a thing, I just pull on two tabs and my boots are tight, it’s amazing.

Helmet

Not much to say here other than make sure you wear one! There’s not one good reason to dispute this.  Don’t NOT wear one because it’s cuter.

Goggles

These are so necessary – it gets so bright on the slopes.  If they’re blowing snow, you’ll be extra glad you have these.  My eyes also get extremely watery when exposed to wind, so these protect my eyes from all the elements.

Bindings

I still have my original bindings from 14 years ago, so I’m definitely due for some new bindings.  If you have suggestions, let me know!

Board

I also still have my original board from when I was 13, but it’s served me well so far! It’s a no name brand, but I love it.

What’s next?

If you have all the layers and you’re renting all the equipment (you can rent your board, boots, bindings, and helmet), then you can fit all the rest in a carry on suitcase or backpack.  I use my Osprey 40 and it works great.

If you have your own equipment and your own snowboarding bag, you’re golden – you can fit it all in the bag.  You have to check your bag anyway if you’re flying, so why not lessen your luggage?  I usually put all of my equipment and my snowpants and snowjacket in the bag as well, and then just carry my backpack on the plane with me.

If you have your own equipment but not a bag, I highly recommend you invest in one!  My dad has his own skiis and ski bag.  However, he was jealous of how I could fit all of my clothes and gear for the weekend in my bag, so he just bought one for himself!

Hopefully this helps, have fun on the powder!

Looking for a place to go skiing or snowboarding? Check out where to go in Salt Lake City or Denver!